Curry Faces Rare Setback During Critical Playoff Run
MINNEAPOLIS — For the first time in his storied career, Stephen Curry is navigating a hamstring injury, and its timing couldn’t be more brutal.
Curry confirmed Thursday that he’s dealing with a Grade 1 strain in his left leg, suffered during a pivot motion on defense in Game 1 of the Warriors’ Western Conference semifinal series against the Timberwolves. Although he initially stayed on the court, Stephen Curry soon recognized the risk of exacerbating the damage.
“I could’ve done more damage if I tried to go back out,” he said. “It’s tricky… You can’t accelerate it more than what it’s telling you.”
Curry will miss at least through Game 4, with reevaluation scheduled next week. A potential Game 5 on May 14 and Game 7 on May 20 could provide enough time for recovery — but even that remains uncertain.
“It’s Our Last Ride”
The emotional weight of the injury is just as heavy as the physical. At 37 years old, Curry knows the Warriors’ title window — especially alongside Draymond Green and Jimmy Butler — is narrowing. The trio is only under contract for two more seasons.
“This is it,” Curry recalled telling Green after the team acquired Butler in February. “It’s our last ride.”
Before the injury, Curry said he was beginning to feel rhythm and momentum. Losing that — at this stage — was devastating.
“You get a gut punch like that,” he said.
Rehab Focused, No Shooting Yet
Curry has yet to resume even stationary shooting drills. His routine is currently built around rehab and listening to how his body responds day by day.
“If it were my ankles, I’d know the timeline,” he admitted. “This one? I have no clue.”
He emphasized that there’s no benefit in rushing, even though the competitive urge builds with each game he misses.
“Eventually there’ll be conversations like that. But I’m not anywhere close.”
Belief in the Team to Hold the Line
Golden State dropped Game 2 without Curry, but their Game 1 win, led by Draymond Green and Jimmy Butler, reassured him that the team can still compete — and survive long enough for him to return.
“There’s a great vibe in our locker room,” Curry said. “We can still win the series… buy me some time.”
The Warriors are now 9-5 in playoff games without Curry since 2015 — a sign of resilience, but one that will be tested again in Game 3.
What’s Next
With no clear return timeline, all eyes turn to the Warriors’ ability to extend the series. For now, Curry’s mission is simple: stay patient, stay focused, and hope his teammates keep the season alive.
If he returns, it may be one last shot at glory with the core that defined a dynasty.
